Logo of Dakota Wesleyan University

Dakota Wesleyan University

Mitchell, United States • Founded 1885

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: dwu.edu

Overview

English Name: Dakota Wesleyan University
Acronyms: DWU
Founded: 1885
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Religious Affiliation: Christian-Methodist
Motto: Sacrifice or Service
Colours: Blue and white
Mascot: Tiger
Logo of Dakota Wesleyan University

Established in 1885, the Dakota Wesleyan University is a non-profit private multidisciplinary higher education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Mitchell (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), South Dakota.

Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) is a very small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Methodist religion. Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study.

This 139-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

DWU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Below are Dakota Wesleyan University's address, location, and primary contact channels.

Address: 1200 W University Avenue
Postal Code: 57301-4398
Phone: +1 (605) 995 2600
Fax: +1 (605) 995 2699
Social Media:

Academic Details

Scale, staffing, and recognition figures for Dakota Wesleyan University are listed below.

Academic Year: 2026-27
Recognition: Higher Learning Commission
Total Students: 906
Academic Staff Range: 50-99
Campus Setting: Rural
Memberships & Networks
Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)

Programs Offered

Search and filter Dakota Wesleyan University's available programmes by degree level.

57 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Master's Degree 7 programmes

Master's Degree in Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences
Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
Education & Teaching
Master's Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision
Educational Leadership
Master's Degree in Special Education and Teaching
Special Education
Master's Degree in Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Education & Teaching
Master's Degree in Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
Education & Teaching

Associate's Degree 4 programmes

Associate's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections
Criminal Law & Justice
Associate's Degree in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
Entrepreneurship
Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Liberal Arts

Postgraduate Certificate 3 programmes

Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Postgraduate Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Education & Teaching
Postgraduate Certificate in Finance and Financial Management Services
Finance, Banking & Insurance

Scholarships in United States

Below are scholarships available to students in the United States.

How to apply to Dakota Wesleyan University

The application path for Dakota Wesleyan University, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Browse the programme catalogue

    Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Dakota Wesleyan University offers 57 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.

  2. 2
    Check eligibility for your chosen programme

    Each programme at Dakota Wesleyan University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Get your documents ready

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Apply through the official channel

    Apply directly via Dakota Wesleyan University's online portal at www.dwu.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Reach out and track your application

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (605) 995 2600. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dakota Wesleyan University

A short Q&A covering Dakota Wesleyan University's essentials — founding, location, and structure.

How old is Dakota Wesleyan University?

The institution opened in 1885 (approximately 141 years ago).

Where can I find Dakota Wesleyan University?

The institution is located in Mitchell, United States.

Is Dakota Wesleyan University public or private?

Dakota Wesleyan University is a private institution.

How many students does Dakota Wesleyan University have?

The institution has a student body of 906.

Is Dakota Wesleyan University affiliated with a religion?

Dakota Wesleyan University is associated with Christian-Methodist.

Who recognises Dakota Wesleyan University?

Dakota Wesleyan University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

How do I find Dakota Wesleyan University online?

You can find Dakota Wesleyan University online at www.dwu.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

The leading universities in the United States are listed below — useful for sizing Dakota Wesleyan University against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in the United States typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.

Members of National Athletic Association (NAA)

Below: other National Athletic Association (NAA) member institutions, alongside Dakota Wesleyan University.

Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Methodist

Dakota Wesleyan University and the universities below share a Christian-Methodist affiliation.

Faculties at nearby universities

The institutions below are geographically close to Dakota Wesleyan University.

Where Else to Study Education & Teaching

These universities in the United States also offer Education & Teaching programmes, alongside Dakota Wesleyan University.

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